Chief Terry Richardson Highlights Indigenous Leadership at Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium
Pabineau First Nation Chief Terry Richardson joined Indigenous leaders, government representatives and energy industry partners at the 5th Annual Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium, held September 22–24, 2026, in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Hosted by the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council, the symposium brought together First Nations leadership, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, youth and industry representatives to discuss the future of energy development throughout Atlantic Canada.
This year's theme, “From Tradition to Transformation: Indigenous Knowledge Guiding Our Energy Future,” highlighted the importance of Indigenous knowledge, meaningful partnerships and First Nations participation in shaping the region's energy future.
First Nations Leadership Strengthens Energy Partnerships
During CTV News coverage of the symposium, Chief Terry Richardson spoke about the importance of First Nations leadership in major energy projects and the value of building partnerships that benefit communities and the broader economy.
“The ones that are most successful are the ones led by First Nations,” Chief Richardson explained.
He emphasized that meaningful Indigenous involvement can help reduce project risks, strengthen collaboration and create opportunities that extend beyond individual communities.
Chief Richardson also reflected on the importance of working together as Canada navigates changing economic conditions and explores opportunities for greater economic resilience.
“Partnering together is the way we move forward,” he said.
His comments reinforce the importance of ensuring First Nations are not simply consulted during major developments but have meaningful opportunities to participate in project leadership, ownership and long-term economic benefits.
Building an Energy Future Guided by Indigenous Knowledge
The Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium provided an opportunity to explore the relationship between energy development, environmental stewardship, Indigenous rights and economic opportunity.
Among the topics discussed were the Seven Generations approach to decision-making, Indigenous equity participation, responsible resource development and creating pathways for Indigenous youth to pursue careers in the energy sector.
These conversations highlighted the importance of considering not only the immediate economic benefits of development but also the long-term impacts on communities, culture and the environment.
By bringing Indigenous knowledge together with industry expertise and emerging technologies, the symposium encouraged conversations about how energy projects can be developed through meaningful collaboration.
Strengthening Relationships Across Atlantic Canada
The symposium also highlighted the importance of early engagement, meaningful consultation and strong relationships between First Nations and energy industry partners.
Following the event, Denis D. Caron, President and CEO of the Belledune Port Authority, reflected on the conversations taking place and their connection to the Port's ongoing work with Mi’gmaq First Nations.
In a LinkedIn post, Caron emphasized the importance of the Port's Relationship, Engagement and Consultation Protocol, which guides how the organization builds relationships, engages with First Nations early in proposed developments and approaches meaningful consultation.
Pabineau First Nation has been part of this work for several years. In 2018, the Nation joined other Mi’gmaq First Nations and the Belledune Port Authority in establishing the protocol, creating a framework for respectful engagement on proposed developments.
This relationship was further supported through a 2021 Impact Assessment Act Protocol intended to facilitate meaningful First Nations participation in the assessment of projects on federal lands.
As Atlantic Canada explores emerging energy opportunities, these existing relationships demonstrate the importance of ensuring Indigenous voices, rights and community priorities are considered throughout project development.
Looking Toward the Future
For Pabineau First Nation, participation in regional energy discussions is part of a broader commitment to Indigenous economic development, meaningful partnerships and opportunities for future generations.
Chief Richardson's message at the symposium reinforced the importance of collaboration and First Nations leadership as Atlantic Canada explores new energy opportunities.
Meaningful economic reconciliation requires more than consultation. It involves building relationships grounded in respect, recognizing Indigenous rights and creating opportunities for First Nations to participate in the decisions and developments that affect their communities.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, conversations like those held at the Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium help strengthen the foundation for Indigenous participation in regional economic development.
By working together, First Nations, governments and industry partners have an opportunity to build an energy future that respects Indigenous knowledge, supports economic opportunity and considers the well-being of generations to come.
Watch the CTV News Coverage
Chief Terry Richardson's comments are featured in the CTV News report highlighting conversations from the 2026 Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium.
Watch the CTV News report on YouTube
For additional information about the symposium, visit the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council's official event page.
Sources: North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council; CTV News coverage of the 2026 Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium; LinkedIn commentary by Denis D. Caron, President and CEO of the Belledune Port Authority; Port of Belledune Indigenous engagement information.